THREE years after a devastating gorse fire threatened wildlife and damaged the countryside in Lisnaskea, Fermanagh residents have been urged to protect the local areas from fires.
With the good weather finally here, Fermanagh residents have been urged to consider their actions and help the stretched Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service avoid any local wildfires.
In July 2021, over 60 firefighters from across the North were forced to tackle a major wildfire at Tully Forest, near Lisnaskea, which caused ‘significant’ damage to the local wildlife.
With the majority of wildfires usually preventable and caused by human behaviour, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is calling on Fermanagh residents to be responsible.
“Every year our Fire and Rescue Service is faced with fires in the countryside that have been devastating to our environment and wildlife and they put people’s lives at risk,” said Group Commander Paul Marrow.
“This puts an added pressure on our Service and our partner agencies who are frequently required to respond alongside us.
“It is physically exhausting and demanding work for our Firefighters in extreme, high temperatures as it takes hours, and sometimes even days, to put wildfires out,” he added.
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has urged the public to be very careful when lighting fires and barbecues outside.
“Wildfires can be unpredictable and spread fast. They are a threat to wildlife, livestock, environment, property and people,” said the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue spokesperson.
“You can help us prevent wildfires by protecting the places we love and staying safe. If you are enjoying the countryside, please be responsible and follow our safety advice.
“Don’t use open fires and don’t be careless with smoking materials, barbecues, camping fires or any other types of flames.”
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